When gazing at a clear sky, you may notice tiny cobweb-like structures drifting across your field of vision, known as floaters or muscae volitantes. These pesky annoyances have led people to search for ways to eliminate them. In an article titled “Eye floaters: What causes them and how to get rid of them naturally” published in the Mirror, Sarah Brewer, a GP, discusses a supplement called Clearer created by Theia Bio, claiming it to be a natural and effective solution for addressing floaters. However, it’s important to note that Dr. Brewer does not specifically discuss getting rid of floaters. Theia Bio’s website provides a more detailed description, stating that Clearer contains antioxidants and antiglycation micronutrients that have been scientifically proven to reduce the size of floaters and alleviate visual discomfort in around 70 percent of test subjects over a six-month period.
The Causes of Eye Floaters
Floaters primarily occur due to the natural aging process. As individuals age, the vitreous, a gel-like substance within the eye, begins to thicken and shrink. The vitreous consists of water, collagens, and hyaluronan, an acid. Over time, the vitreous undergoes slight degeneration, resulting in the formation of clumps of collagen. These clumps cast shadows on the retina, leading to the appearance of floaters. Additionally, as individuals age, the vitreous gradually detaches from the back of the eye, a process called posterior vitreous detachment, which further contributes to the presence of floaters.
The Potential of Vitamin Supplements
Researchers in Taiwan conducted a study in 2022 suggesting that consuming high-dose mixed fruit enzyme supplements could potentially reduce floaters. However, the study’s methodology for measuring the number of floaters is unclear, making it difficult to evaluate the study’s results without further information. Theia Bio, the company associated with Dr. Brewer’s statements, shares a study on its website that supposedly offers scientific proof of Clearer’s ability to reduce the size of floaters and alleviate visual discomfort. However, accurately measuring floaters is challenging due to the mobility of the vitreous. Whenever the eyes move, the vitreous opacities (floating objects within the vitreous) and the resulting floaters also move. Since the vitreous clumps are three-dimensional, different angles can affect the measurements taken, and floaters may appear larger when closer to the front of the eye. The reduction in opacity size reported in the study is based on a small sample size of only 26 individuals who took the supplement, and the opacity sizes were measured in two dimensions (cm²). Consequently, this limited trial does not provide sufficient evidence to support the claim that floater size can be reduced through the use of this dietary supplement.
Alternative Treatments for Floaters
While vitamin supplements may not offer a reliable solution for floaters, there are a few medical procedures available. The most common procedure, vitrectomy, involves surgically removing the vitreous. However, this surgery carries risks to a person’s vision that outweigh the benefits of eliminating floaters. Another option involves using a YAG laser to zap floaters, although experts have differing opinions on this method’s safety. Several private companies promote this treatment as a viable solution, but reports of damage to various eye structures and the development of glaucoma raise concerns about its safety. Other online suggestions for managing floaters include intermittent fasting, temple massage, acupressure, and eye exercises. However, credible evidence supporting the effectiveness of these methods is lacking.
Managing Floaters
In most cases, the best approach to dealing with floaters is simply to ignore them. Over time, the brain adapts, and individuals become less aware of them. People who are nearsighted, have undergone cataract surgery, or have experienced eye inflammation are more likely to develop floaters. Additionally, individuals with diabetes may have a higher prevalence of floaters, emphasizing the importance of glucose and diabetic control. It is crucial to be aware that floaters can occasionally indicate a serious underlying condition. If an individual suddenly notices a significant increase in floaters or experiences flashes of light or a shadow obstructing their vision, immediate medical attention may be necessary to address a potential retinal tear.
While there is currently limited evidence to suggest that supplements can directly address collagen clumps in the vitreous, they may still play a role in slowing down the aging process in the eye. Dr. Brewer provides valuable recommendations regarding nutritious food, hydration, and sleep, which contribute to overall health. While these lifestyle changes might not directly impact floaters, they could potentially delay the aging processes that lead to their formation. Kawa Wong, the founder of Theia Bio, clarifies that his company does not promise to cure eye floaters, but rather offers nutritional support based on available scientific evidence for individuals with floaters.
In summary, the quest for an effective solution to address eye floaters continues. While vitamin supplements may not yet provide the desired results, ongoing research and advancements in medical procedures may hold promise for managing and reducing floaters in the future. In the meantime, it is essential to prioritize overall eye health and seek medical attention if any concerning symptoms arise.
Leave a Reply